End of the school year activities and the beginning of summer plans are in full swing. The rose bushes are full. The ball fields are full. And my heart is full.
Our oldest grandson graduated this year. While cameras snapped pictures of him in cap and gown, my memory flashed images of his growing years; like his busy, busy body always in discovery mode. I remembered his first magic trick before he could talk. And his natural ability at sports. His special laugh. His insatiable need for food. And five bucks for more food. Triumphs and failures came to mind. I recalled the times he obeyed and well, – the other times.
Each fragment of his history was pieced beautifully together. Sewn throughout his life, I saw threads of family and friends. There was my daughter’s joy, weaving through the moments, encouraging her son along the way. His father and other family members fastened his past together with laughter and tears. I saw many stitches of instruction, and the mending where lessons were learned. Friends seamed together sections of influence, good times, and even death.
A tower of a young man stood before me, but for just a stitch in time, I saw the art of his Maker. Love that carefully quilted him together, preparing him to stretch out on the grassy meadows when the future is sunny, and conditioning him for when the storms of life drag him through the mud.
I’m thankful for his solid foundation. This week has reminded me how each of us plays an important role in the lives of those who cross our path. I want my influence to be a positive one.
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For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29: 11- 13 NLT
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My spotlight artist this week is Daniela McKenzie.
Daniela is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She resides in Reyno, Arkansas, but she grew up in Gross-Zimmem, Germany. She studied Interior Design and Décor and fell in love with color and fabric.
While taking care of sick family members, she sewed to supplement their income. People fell in love with her quilts. So, when her husband returned to work, she decided to open her own Fabric and Quilt shop. She jokingly said her husband thought she was crazy, but really supports her 100%
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Her over 500 custom quilts are enjoyed worldwide. Also, creating charity quilts are a blessing, she said. They remind her to say “Thank you Lord and community”.
Her shop is a happy place where wonderful people who share the compassion for quilting get together to inspire one another. Lots of chairs are set out so they can stay and share laughs. No drama allowed! It’s therapeutic. She sees her friends as part of her own reflection in the mirror.
The Fabric and Quilt shop is closed on weekends, so she can spend time with family.
Daniela said, “If someone tells you that you can’t do something, be deaf and show yourself that you can”.
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Daniela stays busy with her quilts. Please enjoy her gallery.
Click here to follow Daniela at Fabrics and Quilts on Facebook
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beautifully said and beautiful quilts!!
Lovely words and gorgeous quilts!